tennis Fixture

U20s Level Singles Championships 2014

Match Report

The National Under 20's Amateur Competition is an event that we always look forward to here at Prested Hall, we see it as a great opportunity to welcome the countries best youngsters to our club to battle it out for the title, this year the level event and handicap event have been separated meaning a smaller draw, of particularly low handicaps in the level event... the eight consisted of players with handicaps ranging from 12 to 38, a very impressive standard.

The eight were divided into two round robin groups, with the winner and runner up of each making it through to the semi final stages. This left us with tournament favourite Charlie Braham(Petworth) taking down Tom Buckley(Radley) 10/2 in the first semi final. The other saw the first major upset of the event, Jonny Whitaker(Oxford) managed to step up his game against the young and talented Levi Gale(Bridport) and hold his nerve to win a nail biting match...10/8.

A slightly different final to what the handicaps would suggest, but this one was sure to be impressive to watch, could Jonny carry his excellent form from the semi into this best of three six game set match? As the match started off Charlie looked dominant and out rallied Jonny and took a 3/0 lead. However once Jonny found his range he seemed unstoppable, taking a 5/3 lead. Another twist in the tale with Charlie keeping a calm head and clawing his way back, and taking the first set 6/5. From here on in Jonny showed that his recent training in the states has improved his game no end, turning it up a gear, not only retrieving excellently but also putting the ball away at will! He didn't look back, winning the match, and the championship 5/6 6/2 6/1.

Well played to all involved, it was great to have you at Prested Hall and we look forward to seeing you all in April for the 2015 event.

Lewis Williams